Federal & State Artificial Food Color Bans
Nationwide increased focus is being paid to artificial food dyes and their potential health complications. With California leading the way many states are also now reviewing and potentially banning select artificial colors within their states. For food manufactures, a ban in a major state such as California or New York typically drive a change nationwide as the costs to produce the same product two different ways becomes onerous. The recent federal ban on Red #3 has brought even more impetus and should lead to broader reforms across the US food industry.
Ultimate Baker has been manufacturing and distributing all natural food colorants to the US food industry, bakers, cake decorators and more for over a decade. We pride ourselves in our color options and in working for food manufacturers to seek healthier alternatives to artificial colorants.
Federal Food Color bans pending:
Red 3 (FD&C Red No. 3)
- Federal Ban: Banned in food and pharmaceuticals nationwide as of January 15, 2025.
- Reason for Ban: Potential cancer risks based on animal studies.
- Timeline: Food manufacturers have until January 2027 to reformulate their products, while drug manufacturers have until January 2028.
Red 40 (FD&C Red No. 40)
- Federal Ban: No federal ban, but under consideration in several states.
- Reason for Ban: Concerns about hyperactivity in children and potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
State Food Color bans pending:
Here's a detailed list of future bans on artificial food colors, including Red #40, across various states:
California:
- Red 40: Banned in school foods starting December 31, 2027.
- Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 3, Blue 1, and Green 3**: Also banned in school foods by the same date.
New York:
- Red 40: Under consideration for a ban in school foods, with a decision expected by 2026.
- Yellow 5 and Yellow 6: Similar considerations are underway.
Maryland:
- Red 40: Discussions ongoing about a potential ban in school foods, with a legislative proposal expected in 2026.
- Yellow 5 and Yellow 6: Also under consideration.
Illinois:
- Red 40: Proposed ban in school foods, with a vote scheduled for 2026.
- Yellow 5 and Yellow 6: Similar proposals are being discussed.
South Dakota:
- Red 40: No formal ban yet, but discussions are ongoing about potential restrictions in school foods.
Massachusetts:
- Red 40: Under consideration for a ban in school foods, with a decision expected by 2026.
- Yellow 5 and Yellow 6: Similar considerations are underway.
Oregon:
- Red 40: Proposed ban in school foods, with a vote scheduled for 2026.
- Yellow 5 and Yellow 6**: Similar proposals are being discussed.
Washington:
- Red 40: Discussions ongoing about potential restrictions in school foods, with a legislative proposal expected in 2026.
- Yellow 5 and Yellow 6: Also under consideration.